Originality, Bedrock Of My Music, Says Kitay

By ‘Bike Ogbuokiri—

Fast-rising Afrobeats artist, Kitay, announced his arrival into the bustling Nigerian music scene with a bang, after making the Top Five at the popular Project Fame national talent hunt contest (2016 edition), with his hit single, Ogogoro.

The Urhobo, Delta State native, whose real names are Okiemute Okotete, reveals how making the Top Five at Project Fame shaped his musical career. “Making Top Five at Project Fame in 2016 was a turning point for me. That platform taught me discipline, stage confidence, vocal control, and most importantly, consistency.

“When you compete with that, you realise talent alone is not enough — you need character, work ethic, and emotional strength. It also taught me how to perform under pressure and connect with a live audience.

“Today, whenever I step on stage or enter the studio, I carry that experience with me. Project Fame didn’t just expose me — it prepared me. It made me understand that music is not just art, it’s a responsibility.”

And what makes Kitay’s brand of music unique and different from any other regular artiste?
“Authenticity”, the young artist replied without hesitation, adding, “and I don’t try to sound like anyone else.

“My sound is a fusion of Afrobeats, street rhythm, highlife influence, and raw Warri energy. I tell real stories — about hustle, celebration, struggle, and enjoyment — in a way that feels relatable.
“My voice texture, my delivery, and my energy are different. When you hear a Kitay song, you feel it. It’s not just about vibe — it’s about identity. I make music that represents where I’m from and where I’m going,” he submitted confidently.

The artist does not agree that he brands himself a ‘Warri Boy’, even as he explained how being one has influenced his musical works. “Being a Warri Boy is not just branding — it’s lifestyle.

“Warri people are bold, expressive, funny, resilient, and unapologetically real. That spirit reflects in my music. My lyrics carry that street-smart confidence. My rhythm carries that rugged groove. Warri culture has a way of making you stand strong no matter the situation, and that mindset influences my songwriting. I represent my roots proudly because that’s what makes me original.”

He spoke on his plans to export his brand of music across the Nigerian borders and what would make a non-Nigerian play and dance to his songs. “Music is a universal language. The beat doesn’t need translation.

“I plan to continue making authentic Afrobeats with global-quality production. I’m working on collaborations, strategic distribution, and international showcases, especially targeting Europe, where Afrobeats is already thriving.

“What will make a non-Nigerian dance to my song? Energy. Groove. Rhythm. Even if you don’t understand the language, you understand movement. When the drums hit, and the melody carries emotion, your body responds naturally. Afrobeats has opened the door globally — now, it’s about bringing my own flavor through that door.”

His hit song, “Ogogoro”, according to him, is a “celebration music. It’s a street anthem that captures enjoyment, freedom, and that African party spirit. Ogogoro, traditionally, is strong — and the song carries that same strong vibe. It’s bold, energetic, and unapologetic. But beyond the surface, it’s about letting go of stress and celebrating life despite the hustle. It connects because it feels real.”

Kitay appears to have bold and ambitious plans for the year. “2026 is about expansion and elevation. Expect new singles, visuals, collaborations, and more live performances. I’m also working on a major body of work that will truly define the Kitay sound at another level. This year is about consistency and global positioning. More music. More stages. More impact.”

And against the backdrop of the big plans, the artist also spoke about the challenges, major challenge(s) he has faced in his career so far, and how he has surmounted them. “Like many independent artistes, one major challenge has been funding and industry structure.

“Talent is one thing, but pushing music requires resources and the right network. There have also been moments of doubt and delay — but resilience keeps me going. I’ve learned patience, strategic planning, and the importance of surrounding myself with the right team. Every setback has refined me. I don’t see challenges as obstacles — I see them as preparation.”

What does Kitay think the music industry and artistes should be doing that they are not doing? “I think the industry needs more structure, mentorship, and collaboration instead of unhealthy competition.

Artists should invest more in originality and long-term brand building instead of chasing trends. We also need to support upcoming talents better and build stronger systems — publishing, distribution, and proper contracts. Afrobeats is global now. The next step is sustainability and ownership.